Turkey appeared to be searching for a way out of the S-400 dilemma—and back into America’s F-35 program. Then came reports that Israel may have intervened.
The S-400 Problem
Turkey was removed from the F-35 program after purchasing Russia’s S-400 air-defense system. Washington has long argued that operating the Russian system alongside the F-35 could expose sensitive information about the American stealth fighter.
This year, Ankara began exploring ways to transfer the S-400s to a third country. The United Arab Emirates emerged as a possible destination, potentially clearing one of the biggest obstacles to Turkey’s return to the F-35 program.
Enter Netanyahu
Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly opposed selling F-35s to Turkey. In July, he argued that such a sale could upset the regional balance of power and said he had raised his concerns with President Donald Trump.
Now, a report published in Turkish media claims Israel also urged the UAE not to accept Turkey’s S-400 systems. The report says that alleged Israeli intervention helped stall the proposed transfer.
That claim has not been independently confirmed.
The Deal Hits A Wall
By August, reporting indicated that the proposed UAE transfer had stalled and Turkey’s F-35 effort remained at a standstill. U.S. officials have also made clear that simply talking about removing the S-400 is not enough; Turkey still has legal and security requirements to satisfy.
So the strategic picture is striking: Erdoğan wants the S-400 problem resolved. Washington wants safeguards. Israel opposes a Turkish F-35 acquisition. And the UAE has its own security calculations.
The Prophetic Watch
The Bible repeatedly describes a world in which nations gather, alliances shift and Jerusalem becomes a focal point of international attention.
Daniel 2 speaks of kingdoms represented by iron and clay, a mixture that does not naturally hold together. Whether that imagery applies to today’s alliances cannot simply be declared, but the modern Middle East certainly demonstrates how complicated geopolitical partnerships can become.
Jesus also warned believers to watch carefully and avoid deception.
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The Bottom Line
The idea of a secret “chess move” by Netanyahu makes for a compelling headline, but the evidence currently establishes something narrower: Israel openly opposed Turkey receiving F-35s, Turkey explored transferring its S-400s to the UAE, and the proposed transfer subsequently stalled.
Whether Israeli pressure actually caused that outcome remains an allegation.
What is undeniable is that Turkey’s S-400 decision continues to shape its relationship with Washington—and may determine whether Ankara ever gets back into the F-35 program.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why was Turkey removed from the F-35 program?
Because Turkey purchased Russia’s S-400 air-defense system, which Washington said created security risks for F-35 technology.
2. Was Turkey trying to transfer its S-400s to the UAE?
Yes. Reports in July described discussions involving the UAE as a potential destination.
3. Did Netanyahu oppose Turkey getting F-35s?
Yes. Netanyahu publicly urged Washington not to provide the aircraft to Turkey.
4. Did Israel definitely stop the UAE from buying Turkey’s S-400s?
That has been reported in Turkish media, but it has not been independently confirmed.
5. Can Turkey receive F-35s while retaining the S-400?
U.S. officials have said Turkey must resolve the S-400 issue and satisfy applicable legal requirements before receiving F-35s.
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